What does the Bible say about self-examination in faith?
The Bible encourages believers to examine themselves to determine if they are truly in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5).
Moreover, this call to examine one’s faith aligns with the historic Reformed emphasis on the necessity of a true conversion experience. We should not rely solely on external markers like church membership or participation in sacraments; rather, we must ask ourselves if we are genuinely 'born from above' and embodying the transformative grace of God in our lives. In doing so, we ensure our 'lamps' are filled with the oil of faith, ready for the Lord’s return.
How do we know the importance of being born again?
Being 'born again' is essential as it signifies a transformative work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life (John 3:3).
Historically, Reformed theology emphasizes the necessity of this new birth while affirming that it is an act of God’s grace. This transformation is not something we can achieve on our own; it is entirely the work of God in our hearts. As believers, we are called to reflect on whether we have truly experienced this change. The true nature of our Christian life hinges upon this question: Do we have Christ in us? The importance lies in acknowledging that outward appearances can be deceptive, and without genuine conversion, we face the eternal consequences of a faith that lacks substance.
Why is assurance of salvation important for Christians?
Assurance of salvation is vital as it strengthens our faith and motivates holy living (1 John 5:13).
Having assurance does not lead to complacency; rather, it serves as a catalyst for holiness and obedience. When we are confident in our standing before God, we are more inclined to live out our faith authentically. This doctrine reminds us that salvation is not about our fluctuating feelings but rests on God’s promises and His faithfulness. By contemplating the depth of God's grace and truth in our lives, we cultivate a vibrant faith that seeks to honor Him and fulfill His commandments, thereby reflecting Christ's love and character in our daily walk.
I know your works, that you have a name that you live, and are dead. Rev.3:1.
IN a land where the institutions and the ordinances of religion are so strictly and so properly observed—where religious training from infancy, the habit of an early connection with the visible Church, and the consequent observance of the Lord's Supper expected and enjoined, are such marked characteristics—would it be overstepping the bounds of propriety and delicacy, if we press upon the professing reader the importance of close self-examination, and of trial by the word of God, touching the great change, apart from which the most splendid Christian profession will but resemble the purple robes and the fine linen with which Dives moved in grandeur and in state to the torments of the lost. Professors of religion!—Church communicants!—office-bearers!—have you the root of the matter in you? Have you Christ in you? Are you temples of the Holy Spirit? Are you walking humbly with God? Are you born from above? Rest not short of the great change—the heavenly, the divine birth. Place no reliance upon your external relation to the Church of God. Do not be deceived by a false semblance of conversion. You may go far in a Christian profession, and even may live to see the Lord come in the air, and yet have not one drop of "oil in your vessel with your lamp."
Have you sometimes trembled under the powerful exhibition of the truth? so did Felix, and yet he never truly repented! Have you heard the Gospel gladly, and under its momentary influence have done many things? so did Herod, and yet he kept Herodias, and beheaded John! Do you show much apparent zeal for the Lord? so did Jehu, but it was zeal for himself! Are you the associate and the companion of good and holy men? so was Demas, and yet he loved this present evil world. Have you been united to the Church upon a profession of faith and by baptism? so was Simon Magus, and yet he was in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. Do you desire to die the death of the righteous? so did Balaam, and yet he died as the fool dies! Oh, look well to your religion. Take nothing for granted. Think less of burnishing your "lamp," than of having a large supply of oil, that when the Lord sends or comes, you may not be found in darkness, not knowing where you go. Without converting grace in your heart, your Church relation is but the union of a dead branch to a living stem; and your partaking of the Lord's Supper, an "eating and drinking of the Lord's body and blood (as symbolically represented therein) unworthily." Receive in love these faithful admonitions, penned by one whose only hope, as the chief of sinners, is in the finished work of Immanuel, and let them take you to prayer—to the Word—to Christ.
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